74th Governor Farewell Address

Gentlemen, one year ago to this day, I sat where the newly elected governor is sitting. I sat as I listened to former Boys State governor, George Capel, speak.. about something or other, I don't really listen when George talks.

As George talked, my skin started to fill with goose bumps and I was beginning to realize that our journey in Boys State was about to finally begin, and soon we would be running own own state. Gentlemen your journey is about to begin.

Throughout this year, I matured, in ways that I didn't think I needed to mature in at first....But the more and more I thought about it over this past year, being governor, as amazing as it was, was not the main reason I matured. Something else touched my heart and I learned about what it means to be an American... and what our armed servicemen and women do for this country

When I was growing up... I watched cartoon episodes of superman. I was in awe of how amazing super heroes like superman, could make such a difference. As I grew, I was told that there are no super heroes in our world. I was gravely misinformed.

Gentlemen, take a look around you and you'll see the 3 colors a staff member's name tag could be: white, gold, or a light blue....some of those wearing gold name tags and all of those wearing light blue name tags have served in the armed forces. Could those of you who have served for this country please stand to be recognized?

...these men have truly sacrificed more than we can ever know. They have defended our country, with pride. They are the true protectors of the American flag and all that it stands for. They are the reason that Americans will ALWAYS be free.

So super heroes are not real, huh? I don't believe that for one moment. I look out and see gentlemen who defend my family, my friends, and myself from those who want to cause harm to my country and its citizens. They might not have super powers per say, but they have more courage, heart, and pride than I could ever hope to have.

To the gentlemen who have served in the armed forces: this past year if you have not learned anything about me at all, I at least hope you learned how much respect I have for each and every one of you.

I'd like to thank the American Legion and specifically Mr. Davis and Mr. Sluss for this amazing opportunity.
Also I would like to thank Mr. Luke Kopp, my counselor last year, who inspired me to believe that I really could be ,whoever I want to be. Luke gave me the inspiration I needed to believe in myself enough to run for governor.